Important notice regarding use of cookies: By continuing to use this site, you agree to our use of cookies as described in our Digital Privacy and Cookies Policy. Brokerage products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors.
Two pressures are measured for a blood pressure reading 1  : Systolic blood pressure is a measure of blood pressure while the heart is beating. 2  Diastolic pressure is a measure of blood pressure while the heart is relaxed.
The diastolic number indicates pressure when the heart is at rest. Diastolic readings are the bottom half of the blood pressure reading. If the diastolic number is high and closely matches a systolic number in the hundreds (e.g. 130/120), this indicates stage two high blood pressure. Stage two high blood pressure requires immediate attention as it presents a high risk of cardiac incident, blood vessel rupture or damage to the kidneys.